ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Herpesvirus 8 DNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR : 2002996

Mnemonic: HERPES 8

Ordering Recommendation: Tissue is the preferred specimen for diagnosing HHV8-related disease. Refer to Kaposi Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus/Human Herpesvirus 8 (0055629).
Methodology: Qualitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
Performed: Varies
Reported: 3-5 days
Specimen Required: Collect: Lavender (EDTA), yellow (ACD), plain red, or serum separator tube (SST).

Specimen Preparation: Transfer 0.7 mL whole blood, serum, or plasma to an ARUP standard transport tube. (Min: 0.3 mL)

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.

Unacceptable Conditions: Frozen whole blood.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Ambient: 48 hours; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 1 month (frozen whole blood unacceptable)
Reference Interval:
By report
CPT Code(s): 87798
Cross References: HHV-8 (Herpes Virus 8 DNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR), Kaposi's Sarcoma (Herpes Virus 8 DNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR), KS (Herpes Virus 8 DNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR)